Natural Disaster Risk in Highland

Natural Hazard Profile: Highland, Kansas

Highland is a small community of about 1,342 in Doniphan County, in the interior eastern United States. The area experiences hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley, with one of the most intense tornado seasons in the world, peaking in May and June shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Highland.

FEMA rates Highland's composite natural disaster risk at 4.9 out of 10 — moderate risk. The area faces significant landslide risk, where mountainous topography and saturated soils during wet periods combine to create hazardous mass movement conditions. Residents should also account for drought and tornado risk in their preparedness planning.

Highland's risk score, near the 5.2/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Doniphan County, the highest-scoring are landslide, drought, and tornado. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Highland residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for landslide is recommended.